I have greatly enjoyed all of The Hangman‘s Daughter series, and this was no exception. Having lived in Germany and attended a Pötzsch reading in Garmisch, the blended history of this family and of Germany is fascinating. While at times the translation seems a bit clumsy, still the books are fun and educational.

1672, Munich. As the Council of Twelve, the meeting of hangmen, assembles in the heart of Bavaria, a series of strange deaths occur. Women have been turning up dead, all with one thing in common : they all possess a matching amulet. The people are furious, blaming the deaths on the assembly of hangmen. Hangman Jakob Kuisl knows he has to stop this; along with his family, he will attempt to solve this puzzling mystery.

The Council of Twelve is a very interesting, well-constructed historical mystery. The background is well-researched, and the characters are constructed in depth. Although part of a series, the book can stand alone perfectly well for anyone who wants to start off the series with this one. I found the mystery quite intriguing, and the setting done so well, that it drew me more in the story. Definitely recommended for fans of historical fiction and mysteries.

This entry in the Hangman's Daughter series is well written and crafted but I think, after seven tries, that I can let go of a series that never got its hooks in me - I'm more of a "mystery and that's it" kind of fan and this series provides the reader with micro and macro views of Germany in the 1600s, which I think many readers will appreciate and enjoy as Mr. Potzsch does a very good job of integrating the commentary into the characters' lives. A recommend for most readers, if not for me.

Excellent historical myatery involving the breakdown of class hierarchy and the development of modern medicine

I had seen this series on Amazon for quite some time. I finally bought into the series when they offered all of the current books for the crazy price of only $1.99 for each book! OMG!! I kicked myself for waiting so long to dive into this delightful, historical, well written, fabulous collection! So, when I saw that the seventh book was available on NetGalley.. I jumped for joy and begged for a copy!!

'The council of Twelve' was just as engaging as I thought it would be! The plot is awesome and not formulaic (not sure if that's a word or not). I love that the author is actually descended from the Hangman lineage! His insight into the characters hints at a deep passion the author shares with his ancestors. I think, they'd love to have him travel back in time and observe their daily lives. I really have enjoyed the various adventures of the entire series. The stories are always different, non-predictable.. and superbly written!! Do not wait as I did.. jump in.. NOW!!

I have been a faithful reader of this series and have loved each book. I am lucky enough to travel to Europe twice a year and the books make it truly come alive for me. The sense of history the books impart feel so real. Almost as if I am there to see everything for myself. Amazing author. What a talent!

Very interesting storyline. I love the characters and the humor that the author created. This is part of a series and there were parts that referenced the other books (History with Hans) which I haven't read. It didn't hurt the experience of reading this book in any way.